Proverbs 22:1-19 ▼

1 Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.

2 The rich and poor have this in common: The LORD made them both.

3 A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

4 True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life.

5 Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road; whoever values life will avoid it.

6 Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

7 Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender.

8 Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end.

9 Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor.

10 Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too. Quarrels and insults will disappear.

11 Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech will have the king as a friend.

12 The LORD preserves those with knowledge, but he ruins the plans of the treacherous.

13 The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion out there! If I go outside, I might be killed!”

14 The mouth of an immoral woman is a dangerous trap; those who make the LORD angry will fall into it.

15 A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.

16 A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.

17 Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to my instruction.

18 For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips.

19 I am teaching you today—yes, you— so you will trust in the LORD.